I had some help

Fifty

Riley had heard the rumors about Alex Wilson long before he ever met her. People in the industry talked about her like she was some kind of legend. Smart, driven, and beautiful, the kind of woman who could command a room without saying a word. But Riley didn't pay much attention to gossip. He had heard it all before, and most of the time, the reality didn't live up to the hype.

Still, as the day of their first meeting approached, he couldn't shake the curiosity. People had mentioned her beauty like it was something out of the ordinary, like it wasn't just her talent but her presence that made her unforgettable. He figured it was exaggerated, as most stories in the music industry were. After all, how could someone who managed to stay so grounded also be this knockout everyone seemed to talk about?

When he finally arrived at the studio for their meeting, he walked in with no real expectations. He was ready to talk business, focus on his career, and get to know his potential new manager. But when Alex walked through the door, all the rumors suddenly made sense.

She wasn't what he expected. She was more. Dressed simply, but with a kind of effortless elegance, Alex had a presence that was hard to ignore. Her confidence was understated but undeniable, and her beauty? It wasn't just physical. Sure, she was striking-her eyes sharp, her smile warm yet professional-but it was the way she carried herself that really drew him in. There was an energy about her, something magnetic.

For a moment, Riley found himself at a loss for words. He had been around beautiful women before, but Alex was different. She had a natural charm, a calm control over the space around her, like she knew exactly who she was and didn't need to prove it to anyone.

Riley and Alex finished their dinner, their conversation flowing effortlessly as they talked about their lives and interests. Riley was drawn to Alex’s energy and humor, feeling more and more comfortable as the evening went on.

“Do you want to keep the night going?” Riley asked, his eyes gleaming with a playful challenge. “How about some bowling?”

Alex laughed, intrigued by the idea. “Sure, but I should warn you, I’m pretty good at it.”

“Challenge accepted.” Riley replied with a grin.

Riley drove them to the bowling alley, the car ride filled with easy banter and laughter. As they arrived, the colorful lights and the sound of pins crashing set the perfect atmosphere for a fun and relaxed night.

Arriving at the bowling alley, they were greeted by the cheerful chaos of clattering pins and bright neon lights. The atmosphere was lively, with groups of friends and families enjoying their games. Riley and Alex quickly got into the spirit of competition, exchanging playful banter as they took turns bowling.

Riley watched Alex line up her shot, her concentration evident. She released the ball with a practiced ease, knocking down all of the pins. Turning to him with a triumphant grin, she said, “Your turn!”

As Riley stepped up, he felt a playful determination to match her score. He took a moment to focus before rolling the ball down the lane, and when he managed to knock down a strike, Alex cheered, clapping her hands in excitement. “Not bad!” She teased, nudging him with her elbow.

The game continued with both of them taking turns rolling the ball down the lane. Between turns, they shared jokes and friendly challenges, their connection growing with each frame. Riley was struck by how natural it felt to be with Alex, enjoying the moment without any pressure or pretense.

During a brief break, they sat side by side, watching other bowlers and sipping on sodas. “I have to admit, you’re pretty good at this.” Riley said, glancing over at Alex with a smile.